Carnival in Trinidad, often heralded as "the greatest show on Earth," is dazzling with its elaborate costumes and high-energy celebrations. However, behind the charms of this annual spectacle lies a less glamorous reality: the event generates an estimated 3.4 tonnes of waste each year. Recognizing the environmental impact, Danii McLetchie co-founded Carnicycle in 2018 with a vision to bring sustainability to the forefront of the festivities.
While Carnival is deeply ingrained in Trinidad's culture, the carbon footprint associated with the production of costumes is significant. According to Carnicycle's estimates, the creation and transportation of a single carnival bra can emit approximately 37.68 kg (83 lbs) of CO2. This daunting statistic has motivated a team of local activists to take action. In a bold initiative, Carnicycle has launched a recycling program that collects discarded costumes from masquerade bands, many of which typically end up in landfills or incinerators after Carnival.
"In the past year alone, we collected around 10,000 costume pieces," Danii shared, highlighting the dedication required to salvage usable materials. These reclaimed items are then sold to costume designers and enthusiasts, promoting a sustainable approach to carnival attire. Moreover, Carnicycle offers rentals for those hefty backpack pieces that can cost up to $700 (£550), alleviating the burden on parade participants who seek both style and practicality.
Danii is not alone in her mission; she collaborates with Luke Harris, both of whom manage full-time jobs while juggling their eco-focused passion. Another initiative, known as 2nd Closet, was started by lawyer Aliyah Clarke and designer Kaleen Sanois, offering a platform for pre-owned clothing sales and costume repurposing tips through engaging video tutorials.
In a notable collaboration, 2nd Closet helped sort the wardrobe of Machel Montano, a celebrated Soca artist, creating a buzz among fans eager to purchase pieces associated with his iconic performances. "Clothes tell stories, and for someone like Machel, it’s about reliving those moments," Kaleen emphasized.
Environmental consciousness is extending beyond costumes. Events like Fete with the Saints have embraced sustainability with biodegradable cutlery and reusable drinkware while employing "bin detectives" to ensure proper waste management. This year alone, they have reportedly doubled their recycling efforts, preventing millions of single-use plastics from polluting landfills.
Joseph Hadad of the Fete with the Saints organizing committee noted the challenges of implementing these eco-friendly initiatives but assured attendees that the party atmosphere remains undeterred. As attendee Roland Riley praises the proactive approach by the event's planners, it’s clear that the movement toward sustainability in Carnival is gaining momentum—keeping both culture and planet in harmony.
While Carnival is deeply ingrained in Trinidad's culture, the carbon footprint associated with the production of costumes is significant. According to Carnicycle's estimates, the creation and transportation of a single carnival bra can emit approximately 37.68 kg (83 lbs) of CO2. This daunting statistic has motivated a team of local activists to take action. In a bold initiative, Carnicycle has launched a recycling program that collects discarded costumes from masquerade bands, many of which typically end up in landfills or incinerators after Carnival.
"In the past year alone, we collected around 10,000 costume pieces," Danii shared, highlighting the dedication required to salvage usable materials. These reclaimed items are then sold to costume designers and enthusiasts, promoting a sustainable approach to carnival attire. Moreover, Carnicycle offers rentals for those hefty backpack pieces that can cost up to $700 (£550), alleviating the burden on parade participants who seek both style and practicality.
Danii is not alone in her mission; she collaborates with Luke Harris, both of whom manage full-time jobs while juggling their eco-focused passion. Another initiative, known as 2nd Closet, was started by lawyer Aliyah Clarke and designer Kaleen Sanois, offering a platform for pre-owned clothing sales and costume repurposing tips through engaging video tutorials.
In a notable collaboration, 2nd Closet helped sort the wardrobe of Machel Montano, a celebrated Soca artist, creating a buzz among fans eager to purchase pieces associated with his iconic performances. "Clothes tell stories, and for someone like Machel, it’s about reliving those moments," Kaleen emphasized.
Environmental consciousness is extending beyond costumes. Events like Fete with the Saints have embraced sustainability with biodegradable cutlery and reusable drinkware while employing "bin detectives" to ensure proper waste management. This year alone, they have reportedly doubled their recycling efforts, preventing millions of single-use plastics from polluting landfills.
Joseph Hadad of the Fete with the Saints organizing committee noted the challenges of implementing these eco-friendly initiatives but assured attendees that the party atmosphere remains undeterred. As attendee Roland Riley praises the proactive approach by the event's planners, it’s clear that the movement toward sustainability in Carnival is gaining momentum—keeping both culture and planet in harmony.
